I want to dedicate the very first post of this blog to dental health. I think it should start from something that could cause lot of health trouble if not given enough attention to.

I used to see traces of blood as I rinse my teeth after brushing? Do you think it is normal and not worthy of any further thought? Well, I had to think again. I was suffering from gingivitis without even knowing it!

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to gum disease, which is the leading cause of some serious dental problems and tooth loss in adults. So here I have 8 tips for dental health.

• Be a strict follower of the “three-three” rule. You should devote at least 3 minutes 3 times a day to oral hygiene to maintain good dental health.
• Take the boredom out of brushing. Brushing and flossing are perhaps two of the most boring activities. To take the boredom out of brushing, why not try dry brushing (brushing without toothpaste)?
• Avoid torturing your teeth! The next time you brush, use a toothbrush with soft bristles and please don’t push it too hard!
• Get it thoroughly cleaned. It would be wiser to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth the next time you brush your teeth. It will increase the blood circulation around the tissues in your mouth and may help minimize the amount of bacteria present.
• Don’t forget to floss. The food debris, which find their way through the tiny crevices between your teeth, can only be removed by flossing.
• See what baking soda can do for your teeth! Baking soda has mild abrasive properties that can aid in getting rid of plaque. It can also neutralize the acidity produced by bacterial wastes in the mouth, serve as an effective deodorizer and give your teeth a gleaming polish!
• Eat a more balanced diet - Studies prove that a poor diet may speed up the rate of gum disease and may also increase the severity of the condition.
• Make dental visits a routine. Regular visits to your dentist may help you stay away from gum disease.

To prevent gingivitis and its eventual progression into a full-blown gum disease, it would be best to visit your dentist regularly. Only the dentist can diagnose the problem and give you the necessary advice and treatments. The suggestions or tips above can give you a better fighting chance to ward off gum disease and enjoy better dental health forever!